| Abstract: | The solution of elastostatic bodies in frictionless contact is obtained by an automated direct method which exploits the theory of linear elasticity and circumvents the need for the inclusion of artificial interface elements, mathematical programming techniques or computation of contact pressure. The method is simple and economical to use and can be easily appended to existing numerical schemes such as the finite element method. The formulation and numerical algorithm are presented for body combinations which are independent of relative tangential displacements along the contact surface. The method is illustrated through an elementary example amenable to hand calculation. Numerical results for more realistic problems are given and compared to known solutions. It is concluded that the method provides a powerful means for both the analysis and design of contacting bodies when used in conjunction with a finite element computer program. |
